At the Rainbow Room in New York, Fashion Group International honored six influential figures across fashion, beauty, media, styling, and design for their lasting impact on contemporary culture.
Fashion, creativity, and cultural influence took center stage on October 14, 2026, as Fashion Group International (FGI) hosted its 42nd annual Night of Stars gala at New York’s Rainbow Room. Under the theme The Modernists, the black-tie event brought together leaders from fashion, beauty, entertainment, and business to celebrate the visionaries shaping their industries and challenging creative conventions.
The evening honored six distinguished figures whose work continues to influence the global cultural landscape.
Celebrating Creative Vision
Wes Gordon, Global Creative Director of Carolina Herrera, received the Fashion Visionary Award for his contribution to modern American fashion. Fashion communications leader Lucien Pagès was presented with the Media Leadership Award, recognizing his role in shaping the narratives of leading fashion houses and creative talent.
Designer Roksanda Ilinčić, founder and creative director of ROKSANDA, received the Fashion Star Award for her distinctive approach to color, form, and craftsmanship. In beauty, Jane Hertzmark Hudis, Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer of The Estée Lauder Companies, was honored for her impact on global brand building.
Celebrity stylist Micaela Erlanger received the Style Award in Honor of Edith Head, celebrating her influence on red-carpet fashion and visual storytelling. Meanwhile, business leader, designer, and philanthropist Henry R. Muñoz III received the Changemaker Award for his contributions to design, architecture, and culture.
The awards were presented by notable industry figures, including Paige Paul, Nicole Phelps, Jonathan Saunders, Aerin Lauder, Christian Siriano, and actor and producer Tonatiuh.
A Gathering of Fashion’s Leading Names
The guest list reflected the breadth of FGI’s influence, with Vera Wang, Brandon Maxwell, Linda Fargo, Fern Mallis, Ruben Toledo, and other prominent figures joining the celebration.
The evening began with a cocktail reception sponsored by Simon G. Jewelry, followed by dinner and the awards ceremony. In a tribute to the theme, Simon G. Jewelry created commemorative brooches for the honorees, celebrating craftsmanship and design innovation.
Italian heritage fashion house Sergio Soldano, led by creative directors Giovanni Premoli and Dario Di Bella, also supported the event, presenting guests with exclusive Sinopia Tote Bags inspired by the artistic process behind fashion and design.
Looking Toward the Future
For FGI, Night of Stars is more than an awards ceremony. Proceeds support its year-round educational programming, mentorship, scholarships, professional development, and community grants through the Fashion Group Foundation.
Founded in 1930 by seventeen women, including Carmel Snow, Helena Rubinstein, Elizabeth Arden, and Edith Head, FGI continues to connect and champion professionals across the fashion and beauty industries.
As the 2026 gala celebrated The Modernists, its central message extended beyond recognition: creative leadership means challenging convention, opening new possibilities, and shaping what comes next.
At the Rainbow Room, the industry’s achievements were celebrated alongside the next generation of visionaries who will define fashion’s future.
Produced by @lulurosee
Photos by Chia-Ta | @ct_tsai
